US: Adverse weather forecast to continue across central and southern regions through at least May 3 /update 1

Severe weather is forecast to continue across parts of the central and southern US through at least May 3. Whilst the intensity of the severe weather is not expected to be as high as previous days, further isolated storms and showers are expected in the region, and even moderate downpours could trigger flooding in areas where the ground is already saturated and river levels are high following previous heavy rainfall. Strong wind gusts, lightning, hail, and possible tornadoes may accompany storms. Strong winds may cause property damage and power outages.

As of May 2, the US National Weather Service (NWS) has issued flash flood warnings and severe thunderstorm warnings across parts of eastern Texas. Flood warnings, watches, and advisories have been issued across parts of central, eastern, and northern Texas, southern Oklahoma, and central, northern, and western Louisiana. Flood warnings are also in place for numerous rivers in the affected area due to heavy rainfall in recent days. Authorities will likely issue new alerts as weather conditions change over the coming days.

The NWS's Storm Prediction Center has warned of a slight risk of severe thunderstorms (the second lowest level on a five-tier scale) for parts of north-central Texas and into far southern Oklahoma May 2-3. There is a marginal risk of severe storms across much of the rest of the affected area.

The NWS's Weather Prediction Center has warned of a moderate risk of excessive rainfall (the second highest level on a four-tier scale) for parts of eastern Texas just north of Houston and a slight risk of excessive rainfall across the rest of the affected area May 2-3.

Sustained heavy rainfall could trigger flooding in low-lying communities near rivers, streams, and creeks. Urban flooding is also possible in developed areas with easily overwhelmed stormwater drainage systems. Sites located downstream from large reservoirs or rivers may be subject to flash flooding after relatively short periods of intense rainfall. Landslides are possible in hilly or mountainous areas, especially where heavy rainfall has saturated the soil.

Authorities could issue mandatory evacuation orders for flood-prone communities over the coming days. Disruptions to electricity and telecommunications services are possible where significant flooding or landslides impact utility networks.

The severe weather could contribute to transport disruptions throughout the region. Floodwaters and debris flows may render some bridges, rail networks, or roadways impassable, impacting overland travel in and around affected areas. Ponding on road surfaces could cause hazardous driving conditions on regional highways. Authorities will probably temporarily close low-lying routes that become inundated by floodwaters.

Severe weather may cause flight delays and cancellations at airports across the affected region. Flooding could block regional rail lines; freight and passenger train delays and cancellations are possible in areas with heavy rainfall and potential track inundation.

Localized business disruptions will probably occur in flood- or tornado-hit areas; some businesses might not operate at full capacity because of damage to facilities, possible evacuations, and some employees' inability to reach work sites.